Pochettino: No Adkins rift

Southampton manager Mauricio Pochettino says there is no ill-feeling between himself and predecessor Nigel Adkins.

Pochettino's side head to Reading on Saturday, which will see Adkins meet his old side for the first time since his controversial sacking in January.

Despite initial furore from Southampton fans over Adkins' sudden axing, Argentine Pochettino has revitalised spirits at the promoted club after overseeing notable victories over Liverpool, Manchester City and Chelsea.

Adkins replaced Brian McDermott at the Madejski Stadium hotseat after the 51-year-old's sacking last month.

"I have no problem with Nigel Adkins," Pochettino told reporters.

"I have full respect for him and for what he achieved at Southampton."

Southampton look to be heading away from the relegation zone ahead of the Premier League clash, sitting four points above the bottom three with eight games of the campaign left to play.

Adkins' new side, meanwhile, are seven points from safety and bottom of the league.